Chicago re-signs Friedrich

Bridgeview, IL (Sports Network) - The Chicago Fire announced on Wednesday that
the club has re-signed German defender Arne Friedrich. Per league and club
policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Friedrich signed with the Fire as a free agent in March and went on to make 23
appearances for the club, scoring one goal.

A veteran of 82 caps for Germany, Friedrich was selected as the Fire's
Defender of the Year after helping the club to a good defensive record this
campaign, which saw Chicago yield just 41 goals in 34 games, tied for second
best in the Eastern Conference.

"Building continuity at the center back positions is a priority in 2013," said
Fire president of soccer operations Javier Leon. "Arne's international
experience and leadership are key to our defense. We are happy to have him
back next season."